Simpson re-signs with Carlton

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 30: Kade Simpson of the Blues walks to the coin toss ahead of his 300th match during the 2018 AFL round 15 match between the Carlton Blues and the Port Adelaide Power at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on June 30, 2018 in Melbourne, Australia. (Photo by Adam Trafford/AFL Media/Getty Images)

Blues veteran Kade Simpson has re-signed with Carlton for 2019 to extend his career into a 17th season.

The 34-year old became the fifth Carlton player to reach the 300-game milestone earlier this year, joining former greats Craig Bradley (375), Bruce Doull (356), John Nicholls (328) and Stephen Silvagni (312).

Simpson enjoyed another stellar campaign this season, where he averaged 28 disposals, five rebound 50s, six marks and six intercept possessions per game.

“I love this football club, and after being here nearly 17 years it’s an extension of my family. I still feel I have plenty to offer the group so I’m rapt to be continuing on for another year,” Simpson told carltonfc.com.au.

“You don’t know how quickly things can turn, and we have a group of promising youngsters coming through who I’ve relished working closely with in a bit of a mentoring capacity.

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“I want to be part of sustained team success and help build that with this group, so we’ll hit the upcoming pre-season hard over the summer. It’s up to us as leaders to drive those standards so I’m looking forward to getting stuck in.”

Carlton coach Brendan Bolton was thrilled with Simpson’s decision to recommit to the club.

“Kade is the epitome of the player we want at the Carlton Football Club – the heart and soul of our team,” Bolton said.

“While he was clearly uncomfortable with the attention, his milestone earlier this year was incredibly special for our football club. His achievement was a reminder of his longevity and his ability to continually perform at the highest level with the professionalism he characteristically displays.

“He is a terrific role model for our group and an influential leader, and it’s so important to have that type of player with our list profile. We often joke that he’s like a fine wine and this year he has proven that again and showing no signs of slowing down. We’re thrilled Kade is continuing on.”